Aquarium of the Pacific

Timings

The Aquarium of the Pacific is an all-weather venue, so you can visit it any time of the year.

General operating hours: 9am to 6pm (Monday to Sunday)

Jan - Mar

Apr - Jun

Jul - Sep

Oct - Dec

Jan 1 TO Mar 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Mar 31)	TIMINGS
Monday	09:00–18:00
Tuesday	09:00–18:00
Wednesday	09:00–18:00
Thursday	09:00–18:00
Friday	09:00–18:00
Saturday	09:00–18:00
Sunday	09:00–18:00

Apart from the usual timings, there are also special night-time events all periodically arranged throughout the year.

Special hours: 9am to 8pm (August 1 to 11, 13 to 18, 24 to 25, & 31; September 1, 2, 7, 8, 14, 15, 22, 28, & 29; October 5, 13, 19, 26, & 27)

Closed: December 25

Best time to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific

Weekday vs Weekend

Weekdays are comparatively less crowded than weekends but there's still a chance that you'll see a huge number of visitors at every exhibit. Arrive in the later evening if you want to avoid school kids on their school trips as they usually happen on weekday mornings. During holidays and school vacations, you can expect to have a packed house even on the weekdays.

Weekends are filled with locals and tourists, especially families with school-going kids. You might avoid the worst of it if you arrive as soon as the aquarium opens, around 9 am. However, expect it to be quite a tight fit throughout the day.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Very Crowded

Peak season vs low season

The peak times for the Aquarium of the Pacific are the Summer months, the holiday seasons, and school vacation times, although it is a very popular spot throughout the year. June, July, and August tend to be the most crowded due to summer vacations, leading to longer wait times and more limited parking. However, with 5 acres of space, the aquarium can still accommodate visitors without feeling overly crowded.

There is hardly any low season but the wet months in California curbs some crowds in the aquarium, especially because of the frequent thunderstorms. October to February are, therefore, relatively quieter, with the exception of December due to the holiday season.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

How long should I spend at the Aquarium of the Pacific?

To fully experience the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California, you should plan for at least a half-day visit. However, depending on your availability, you can choose which sections to explore. The aquarium is divided into 4 major sections, each offering unique exhibits and experiences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide how much time to allocate to each area based on your schedule:

Frequently asked questions about the Aquarium of the Pacific hours

How can I maximize my visit during peak season?

To make the most of your visit during peak season, consider booking an early slot or exploring exhibits strategically. Start with popular areas like the Tropical Pacific Gallery before they get too crowded. Booking skip-the-line tickets online can also save time and help you secure your preferred time slot.

How far in advance can I book tickets for a specific day?

You can book your Aquarium of the Pacific tickets up to three months in advance. Booking early ensures that you secure your preferred date and time, especially during peak seasons or for special events.

What happens if I arrive late for my visit to the Aquarium of the Pacific?

If you arrive late, your ticket will still be valid for entry as long as it is for the same day. However, keep in mind that the aquarium closes at 6pm, so be sure to arrive with enough time to explore.

How much time do I need to explore the Aquarium of the Pacific?

On an average, you will need about 3-4 hours to fully explore the Aquarium of the Pacific.

What is the best time to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific?

The best time to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific is early in the morning or in the late afternoon. On weekdays, the school trips usually get over by lunchtime. So, visit after 3pm to avoid them. On weekends, it is crowded throughout the day, but drop in right at opening time and you might avoid the worst of it.

Does the Aquarium of the Pacific close on any public holidays?

Except for Christmas Day every year, the Aquarium of the Pacific is open 7 days a week all year round.

Is re-entry allowed into the Aquarium of the Pacific?

Yes, re-entry is allowed on the same day of the visit but be sure that you get your hand stamped at the exit door. This stamp is needed to get same-day re-entry.